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About this quote

What does it mean?
This phrase means not to be overly precise or subtle in describing something.
In plain terms
To state something directly without being too specific.
What can you take from it?
Speak plainly instead of trying to be overly precise.

Where it applies

  • giving advice
  • describing a situation

Putting it to work

  • simplify your explanation

Questions to consider

  • When was the last time you were too precise?

Another view

It can be used to soften the blow of a blunt statement.

More from Charles Dickens

  1. I only ask to be free. The butterflies are free. Mankind will surely not deny to Harold Skimpole what it concedes to the butterflies!

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  2. He had a cane, he had an eye-glass, he had a snuff-box, he had rings, he had wristbands, he had everything but any touch of nature; he was not like youth, he w…

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  3. 'Oh, dear no, miss,' he said. 'This is a London particular.' I had never heard of such a thing. 'A fog, miss,' said the young gentleman. 'Oh, indeed!' said I.

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